Chamber roundtables encourage business leaders to dig deeper into local issues

What’s happening during the legislative “off-season” at the Chamber? The answer is: Plenty.  

Our team continues to advocate for businesses by creating a bridge between local elected officials and Quad Cities business leaders. This summer, roundtables were held in Illinois in East Moline, Moline and Rock Island. Similar events will be held in Iowa after the local elections in November.  

“Our plan with these roundtables is to dig deeper into local political issues and create a space for business owners to exchange feedback directly with their local officials,” said Ryan Sempf, Executive Director of Government Affairs at the Chamber. “Our goal is to facilitate valuable, face-to-face connections between businesses and government officials that ensure both groups are more informed going forward.”  

In early June, nearly 20 members of the East Moline business community gathered to cover various topics such as downtown developments, housing, local incentive programs and ways businesses can provide input on the City’s budget process – something that typically happens during the summer months.   

 At the Rock Island roundtable, the discussion included Downtown Rock Island’s success stories, the challenges local businesses still face and ideas for how the City can foster future economic success. Twenty-five public and private sector attendees came away from the meeting more knowledgeable, more connected and more eager to collaborate.

The final roundtable in the series was held with Moline City officials in July. With seventeen attendees, the conversation included updates on riverfront developments, permits and rail and infrastructure; as well as information on comprehensive planning and downtown housing. 

“These discussions gave business leaders a great opportunity to provide feedback on the matters that affect them most and gave an opportunity to discuss upcoming challenges to their business with City officials. We are excited to continue working with our business leaders and City officials to promote sensible, pro-growth policy now and in the future,” said Sempf. 

You can get involved. Advocate for pro-business policies through our Advocacy Action Center Sign-Up.